A new era: McWard Architects transforms Central Bank

07/01/2013

NAPLES, FL (July 1, 2013) – McWard Architects, principals Jan and Wil Ward, recently completed the renovation of Central Bank’s Naples location. With a multi-faceted design encompassing wood trim, bronze accents, contemporary lighting, new artwork and a rich color palette, the Wards have transformed the mid-century modern bank into a warmer, friendlier space. The project was started last November and was completed without any major interruption of business.

“This building had not been touched for more than 15 years,” said Joanne Show, Central Bank’s Retail Manager/Vice-President. “Prior to our ownership, it was a bare, neutral space. Now we work in a welcoming and wonderful environment.”

Central Bank purchased the building last July when the firm acquired the Bank of Naples.

“It was important to us to create a space commensurate with our vision of how a personal community bank should feel,” said Michael Durkin, Market President, Central Bank Southwest Florida. “Our staff and our clients really appreciate the difference.”

For McWard Architects, a key part of reinterpreting the space was to blend the old with the new. They performed selective demolition utilizing 80 percent of the existing finishes, introduced LEED materials and recovered existing furnishings wherever possible. With an eye toward technology, the conference room will be equipped with the latest Internet and audio/visual systems.

“Working with Central Bank was a perfect example of a successful team effort,” said Jan Ward. “They envisioned a warm, welcoming atmosphere for their clients and staff and we were able to accomplish their goals with the help of D. Garrett Construction. It was also important to them to continue doing business throughout the process, and we completed the work without ever shutting down.”

More about McWard ArchitectsFor more than 26 years, William Ward and Janice McBride Ward have provided a full spectrum of services from master plans to detailed cabinetry for their clients. Their collaborative approach extends to owners, builders, engineers and interior designers. Renovation of existing spaces is a specialty of the firm. The size of a project may range from a 70,000 square foot clubhouse or a 50,000 square foot office building to a 2,500 square foot residential unit. McWard Architects recently expanded to a new location that provides them with additional creative space at 1020 8th Ave. S. in Naples, Fla.